Assessment of Water Pollution in Different Aquatic Systems: Aquifers, Aquatic Farms on the Jamapa River, and Coastal Lagoons of Mexico

Abstract

Agriculture, animal husbandry, fisheries and aquiculture have caused negative impacts to rivers, ground waters, and coastal lagoon systems as well as to associated systems. The objective of this study was to determine pollutant concentrations in groundwater from surface wells or water wheels in aquatic farms located along the river, and in lagoon systems, located in the state of Veracruz, Mexico, and their possible risks for human health. Concentrations of nitrates, total coliforms (TC), and Vibrio sp. were determined as well as temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, and pH. The results showed that some values of physical, chemical and biological parameters in groundwater and different aquatic systems were beyond the levels established by the Mexican official norm. Farm effluents had TC levels higher than 2419 MPN 100 mL-1 and dissolved oxygen was at a minimum value of 1.7 mg L-1, concentrations beyond the fixed standards. Likewise, the presence of Vibrio sp. was detected in lagoon systems, which is an indicator of water contamination. We conclude that the impact of production activities leads to human health risks.